OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The state has announced new plans to help crack down on smartphone use in classrooms.

The Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) released a list of policies on Wednesday, Aug. 28, for teachers to consider using this school year.

The recommendations include clearly stating when it’s appropriate to use cell phones in class and defining use and non-use areas for devices within the school and classroom.

The state cites smartphone policies from the Reardon-Edwall School District near Spokane, where devices have to be kept in a locker or cubby during the school day.

Teachers are also being advised to educate their students on digital literacy, the effects of cyberbullying and misinformation.

A 2024 survey by the National Education Assocation found nearly 80% of teachers believe cell phones to be very disruptive and 90% said they would support policies to limit their use during class time.

OSPI is aiming for school districts to form a plan for restricting cell phone and smart device use in classes by the start of the 2025-26 school year.